Welcome from the Dean

The Northwestern University School of Continuing Studies is dedicated to meeting the educational needs of a unique student population: adult learners. Most of our students work full time and attend classes during evenings and on weekends. They come to SCS to earn a master's degree or a graduate credential or simply to engage in a learning experience at one of the nation's most respected universities. They take time away from their careers, their busy schedules, and their families to fulfill a perhaps long-sought-after academic dream.

Since its founding as University College 74 years ago, the School of Continuing Studies has offered an impressive array of educational programs. SCS master's degree programs can help you meet your professional or personal goals in fields ranging from creative writing to public policy.

A hallmark of SCS is the flexibility to meet the individual student's requirements. If you do not need or want a full master's program, we offer several nondegree opportunities, including the professional graduate series. Work done in these graduate certificate programs may be applied toward a master's degree if you later decide to continue your studies at SCS. Additionally, students have the opportunity to take graduate courses at Northwestern on a course-by-course basis, for credit or as "visiting scholars." Each of the graduate programs delivers a high-quality Northwestern University educational experience.

As you browse this web site, you will see that the School of Continuing Studies is a place where you can satisfy your lifelong commitment to learning - whether you seek a degree, want to develop professional skills, or simply desire a new intellectual challenge. We believe that when you attend Northwestern, our great tradition of quality will set you apart - whether in the business marketplace or the marketplace of ideas.

Sincerely,

Thomas F. Gibbons
Dean